Name of Aboriginal hero in line for proposed new locality

Parts of Burnside and Gracetown could soon be included in a new locality, named for a local Aboriginal figure. Under the proposal, which has been put to the Shire of Augusta-Margaret River by the Undalup Association, about 2700ha of land would be renamed Yebble, the name given to Samuel Isaacs by his mother. Mr Isaacs famously helped rescue 54 passengers from a shipwreck at Calgardup Bay in 1876. The Shire will now begin a community consultation period, with submissions open until February 12 before councillors makes a decision in March. “If successful, a recommendation for approval will be made to the minister for lands, who is responsible for excising the portion of land from the existing localities in Gracetown and Burnside,” Shire chief executive Stephanie Addison-Brown said. A decade after his brave efforts, Isaacs received a parcel of land as a commemorative gift. “The proposed locality of Yebble is not far from the land Mr Isaacs was gifted in 1887,” Ms Addison-Brown said. “It is on the north side of Margaret River and also includes the Ellensbrook Homestead and Meekadarabee Falls, which are both of historical and cultural significance to the local Noongar people.” Lands Minister Ben Wyatt said he was pleased the proposal was being explored and said it would be a deserved honour for the Isaacs family. “This is another significant step in correcting the wrongs of the past, seeking to ensure forgotten Aboriginal heroes like Mr Samuel Isaacs are rightfully honoured,” he said. “If passed, the new locality will ensure Mr Isaacs’ legacy lives on, strengthening his connection to the land and cementing his name in WA’s history. “I hope this locality gives Mr Isaacs, his descendants and the Aboriginal community the great honour and respect they deserve.” The town of Gracetown is named for Grace Bussell, who assisted Mr Isaacs in rescuing the passengers.